Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) - Action and Properties
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), also known as the "longevity mushroom," is one of the oldest medicinal mushrooms used in traditional Chinese medicine. This unique mushroom is prized for its numerous health properties, including its immune system-boosting, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what Reishi is, what health benefits its regular use can bring, and how it works on the body.
What is Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)?
Reishi is a saprotrophic fungus that grows mainly on dead deciduous trees, such as oak and beech. Its distinctive appearance is distinguished by the shiny, lacquered surface of its hat, which has given it the name "lacquerwort". In traditional Asian medicine, Reishi has been recognized for centuries as a means of promoting longevity, vitality and overall resistance body.
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) - Chemical Composition
Reishi contains a number of bioactive compounds that are responsible for its health-promoting effects. The most important of these are:
- Polysaccharides: Strengthen the immune system, have anti-cancer and antioxidant effects.
- Triterpenes: They have strong anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and hepatoprotective (liver protection) effects.
- Sterols: Support hormonal balance and cardiovascular health.
- Peptides: Show antioxidant activity, protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) - Action
Strengthening the Immune System
One of the most important and well-studied effects of Reishi is its ability to strengthen the immune system. The polysaccharides in this mushroom stimulate the activity of macrophages and lymphocytes, which improves the body's ability to fight infections, viruses and bacteria. Regular use of Reishi can boost immunity, which is especially important during seasons of increased susceptibility to colds and infections.
Anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects
Reishi contains triterpenes, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties. They can inhibit the activity of inflammatory mediators, making this mushroom helpful in relieving inflammation, both chronic and acute. Studies suggest that Reishi can also inhibit the growth of cancer cells and prevent metastasis, making it a valuable support in anti-cancer therapy.
Antioxidant Activity
Reishi is rich in antioxidants, which neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress. As a result, this mushroom can delay the aging process, promote cellular health and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis, heart disease and diabetes.
Supporting Liver Health
Reishi also exhibits hepatoprotective, or protective, effects on the liver. The triterpenes in the mushroom promote liver cell regeneration and can protect against damage caused by toxins, drugs or liver disease. This makes Reishi an excellent detoxification support for the body.
Application of Reishi in Medicine and Supplementation
Reishi is widely used as a natural supplement to support health and immunity. In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat a variety of ailments, from liver disease to chronic fatigue and insomnia. Nowadays, Reishi is available in the form of capsules, extracts, powders or teas, making it easy to incorporate into the daily diet.
ENCANN Productssuch as ENCANN Reishi Liquid Extract, are an excellent source of bioactive compounds contained in the Reishi mushroom. This extract contains a broad spectrum of substances that support the health of the immune system and support overall health
Source: PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/); Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/); National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI); ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/)